Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Review: Unmatched Noise Cancellation at its Finest!

Some Noticeable Information

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are unrivaled in noise cancellation, making them the best choice for blocking unwanted noise.

The earbuds deliver exceptional sound quality, producing immersive audio with distinct vocals. Despite the slightly challenging touch controls and the absence of wireless charging in the bulkier case, the earbuds' overall comfort and effective ANC performance make them a versatile option for both travel and daily use.

There is no denying that the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds reign supreme when it comes to noise cancellation. While the debate about music quality and fit may persist, it’s indisputable that Bose remains unmatched in blocking out unwanted noise.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

The QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, rated 8/10, provide an unbeatable wireless noise-canceling earbud experience. With Bose Immersive Audio, you can truly immerse yourself in music by feeling like the sound is right in front of you. The audio quality is so realistic that it feels almost tangible, as if you could reach out and touch it. These earbuds offer convenient connectivity with Bluetooth and have an IPX4 rating for water resistance. Additionally, the Bose Immersive Audio feature enhances spatial audio, providing a unique listening experience. The earbuds offer a six-hour battery life, and their dimensions, including the charging case, are 2.61 x 2.34 x 1.05 inches (66.79 x 59.44 x 26.67mm). Overall, these earbuds provide the best Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) performance currently available in the market.

Great sound quality

Extremely comfortable

Cons Touch controls can be hard to use

Bulky case doesn?t have wireless charging

Immersive Audio was forgettable

$299 at Bose $299 at Best Buy $299 at Target $299 at Amazon

What’s New With the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Tyler Hayes QC Ultra Earbuds in White Smoke (left) next to last year's QC Earbuds 2 in black

The microphones have been tweaked for better clarity

The rubber “stability bands” have been adjusted for better fit

Bose Immersive Audio added

Bluetooth 5.3 instead of 5.1

Adding AptX technology to the QC Ultra Earbuds has served as a minor update to the previous model, the QuietComfort Earbuds 2 (or II). This revision brings the Ultra Earbuds in line with the new Ultra Headphones, ensuring seamless compatibility between the two. This synchronization between the products will greatly assist consumers in making well-informed purchasing decisions in the future.

QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Design and Fit

The New Ultra Earbuds - A Product You Should Consider

Tyler Hayes

I marveled at the stability bands encircling the outer edge of the earbuds, yet I struggled to discern any significant disparity between the previous year's model and this year's modified version. As I alternated between the Earbuds 2 from last year and the newly introduced Ultra Earbuds, I noticed a more pronounced difference in sensation rather than a visible one.

The stability bands in my ears are subtly adjusted, making them less noticeable, but they still fit securely. Although last year's model was comfortable and well-fitting, if I had to choose, I would likely opt for the newer stability bands. The box provides various size options, but I ultimately decided to stick with the default size. I didn't observe any other variations in fit, and Bose has not mentioned any additional modifications. Even the bulky case remains unchanged.

Despite the bulky size of the Ultra Earbuds, they remained securely in place in my ears. The combination of their shape and stability band provided a reassuring sensation, eliminating any concern about them falling out, even during intense physical activities like running. Additionally, not only were they secure, but they also offered remarkable comfort for prolonged usage, making them exceptionally suitable for travel purposes. However, when my wife tried the earbuds, they proved to be too large for her ears. Therefore, individuals with smaller ears may still encounter difficulty in finding a suitable fit with Bose's top-notch earbuds.

Sound and Call Quality: The Noise Has Been Canceled

Over the past year, I have consistently compared various high-end earbuds to the QuietComfort Earbuds 2. Whenever a company claimed to have unmatched active noise cancellation (ANC), I directly tested them against Bose's earbuds and, without fail, Bose's product always surpassed the others in reducing external noise.

The QC Ultra Earbuds maintain the same level of ANC performance as their previous model, making them the top choice for ANC earbuds. I extensively used them in coffee shops, on the street, in environments with simulated airplane noise, and elsewhere. In each scenario, they outperformed other earbuds by effectively blocking out unwanted sounds.

While blocking out noise, it's essential to allow sound in when necessary. Bose's Aware mode offers exceptional performance in this regard. I observed minimal digital distortions or compression in the audio produced by the earbuds. The ambient sounds appeared natural, and I could even hear the gentle clicks of my keyboard.

Bose promotes improved call quality owing to microphone enhancements. Overall, I found the recording of my voice to be satisfactory. However, I noticed that the earbuds didn't block out as much background noise as I had expected. This could potentially be distracting for the individuals you're speaking to. Please find some examples of microphone quality mentioned below.

I primarily used the QC Ultra Earbuds for listening to music, as well as watching shows. The music I streamed had a deep, rich sound with a pleasing fullness. The bass was predictably thumping, a common characteristic of Bose products, while the vocals were clear and easy to distinguish. Overall, everything I listened to sounded exceptional.

When the Bose Immersive Audio mode was enabled, it attempted to give any audio played through the earbuds a multi-dimensional and spatial quality. Personally, I didn't find this mode offensive, but I also didn't find it particularly captivating.

I have found a greater appreciation for Dolby Atmos in Apple Music because it provides a remarkable sense of space and depth to the songs that are mixed for it. Dolby Atmos Music allows for the intricate placement of instruments in a unique spatial manner, but its true value lies in providing artists with a larger canvas on which their music can flourish and thrive. It is a feature that goes beyond mere gimmickry, contrary to what many may believe.

While Spotify currently lacks the capability to utilize Dolby Atmos tracks, I did notice an improvement in the sound quality of streaming music from the platform when using Bose Immersive Audio. The music seemed to have a greater level of richness and was less flat. However, I would not consider purchasing these earbuds solely for the Immersive Audio feature, and I question how frequently I will make use of it in the future.

Immersive Audio does take more battery life to operate, so you’ll be looking at closer to four hours if you use it, instead of about six hours of standard listening time.

The Less Desirable Parts of These Earbuds

Tyler Hayes

While these earbuds offer excellent comfort and advanced noise cancellation (ANC), they do have their limitations. However, the majority of these drawbacks can be effectively addressed to maximize their advantages. Here are a few specific areas that I believe should be improved upon in future iterations.

The touch controls of the earbuds were unreliable in my experience. Adjusting the volume by sliding up and down, double tapping, and touch and hold generally functioned, although they demanded more effort and focus than I desired for using earbuds. It would be fantastic if there were a physical click or press option in future iterations.

Despite its size and bulkiness, the case is not easily portable and cannot charge wirelessly. To include wireless charging, an additional case add-on costing $50 is necessary.

The IPX4 rating makes me apprehensive about using them as fitness earbuds, despite their ability to stay in my ears. I hope for improved water resistance in future models.

I desire slimmer or smaller earbuds. They did not fit in my wife's ears, preventing her from experiencing the ANC performance. Additionally, bulkier earbuds tend to snag on jackets and sweaters when being taken off. While it might be challenging to achieve both outstanding ANC and excellent sound in a smaller design, the size is still noteworthy.

Price and Availability

Presenting the all-new Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, now obtainable for only $299. These exceptional earbuds can be purchased in the elegant Black and White Smoke shades from a range of retailers. For the exclusive and captivating Moonstone Blue variant, visit Bose.com.

Should You Buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds?

Tyler Hayes

The $300 earbuds are missing wireless charging, which is a significant oversight. The touch controls are average and can somewhat affect the listening experience. Despite these drawbacks, I always choose the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds for all my trips because they excel in comfort, sound quality, and active noise cancellation.

While I primarily prefer the QC Ultra Earbuds for traveling, I have also found them to be excellent for daily work. They have proven to be highly effective during my running sessions as well. These earbuds are versatile and can adapt to various situations. I'm looking forward to directly comparing them with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, which are an over-the-ear option. However, for a more compact choice, the QC Ultra Earbuds are unmatched.

Experience the ultimate wireless noise-canceling earbuds with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. With Bose Immersive Audio technology, you'll be taken on a listening journey like never before. The sound is so realistic, it feels as if you could reach out and touch it. Enjoy an 8/10 rating for an unparalleled audio experience.

$299 at Bose $299 at Best Buy $299 at Target $299 at Amazon

Editor's P/S

As an enthusiastic fan of Bose products, I am thrilled with the release of the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds. Bose has outdone themselves once again, delivering a product that combines exceptional noise cancellation with superior sound quality. The sleek design and comfortable fit make these earbuds perfect for travel, while the long battery life ensures that you can enjoy your music, podcasts, or audiobooks for hours on end.

The noise cancellation on the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds is truly remarkable. It effectively blocks out all background noise, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your audio content. Whether you're on a noisy plane, in a busy office, or simply trying to relax at home, these earbuds will provide you with a peaceful and distraction-free listening experience.

The sound quality is equally impressive, with clear and detailed audio that brings your music to life. The bass is rich and full, the mids are clear and present, and the highs are crisp and airy. Whether you're listening to your favorite music, watching a movie, or playing a game, the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds will deliver an exceptional audio experience.